A while back, a landscaper offered to spruce up our yard and suggested using glyphosate to eliminate dandelions and other weeds like plantain, aiming for a pristine lawn. He didn’t quite get my firm stance against using glyphosate in our yard. He kept saying it’s completely safe once it dries. I explained that we actually appreciate these so-called “weeds” and use them in various ways, so our idea of a nice lawn is different from his!
In many places, a beautiful lawn is one that’s weed-free with a lush layer of green grass. Americans are so focused on having attractive lawns that it’s become a multi-billion dollar industry. We spend a lot of money to kill off naturally growing plants and replace them with grass, ignoring the benefits of things like clover, plantain, and dandelions, which are good for pollinators.
I understand why people do this, especially where homeowners’ associations require it. But the good news is there are ways to maintain a nice lawn without relying on harsh chemicals. Making this switch can save money, help pollinators thrive, reduce chemical exposure, and create a safer play area for children and pets!
Many assume lawn chemicals are safe, but that’s not true. For example, each year, U.S. homeowners apply over 3 million tons of synthetic fertilizers and 70 million pounds of pesticides and herbicides to their lawns. These chemicals pose risks to children, pets, and wildlife, and about 65% of these chemicals end up in our lakes, rivers, and underground water sources.
Switching to natural lawn care is surprisingly easy and affordable. It’s simpler than improving home water systems or revamping meals with meal planning, which I also recommend!
Start in the spring with some basic steps for a more natural lawn. Many lawns only look nice on the surface because irrigation affects root quality. Most lawns are used to getting water and nutrients from irrigation and fertilizers, leaving them vulnerable to drought or other issues due to a lack of deep roots.
To grow anything well, including a lawn, focus on the soil first for long-term growth. This makes grass tougher and reduces the need for watering or chemicals. Soil testing is key to know what’s needed. Free or low-cost tests are often available at county extension offices or garden shops. Healthy soil should be dark, crumble easily, and the grass should have strong roots. Excess dead matter at the base (thatch) suggests poor soil quality.
Pick a local grass type that’s hardy and water-wise. Consider sun/shade needs, lawn traffic, and local rainfall. The University of Georgia provides guidelines on how often to water different grass types. For instance, Bahia grass and Bermuda grass can go 12–21 days between watering, while Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass may need water every 5–7 days. These timings help determine which grass will grow well in your area.
Growing a single type of grass over a large area is unnatural and increases the risk of disease and high nutrient needs. Consider adding clover to boost soil nitrogen or converting part of your lawn into a wildflower area for the benefit of pollinators.
Most people mow their lawns too often or too short, which is unnecessary. It’s better to mow frequently but keep it longer than 2 inches to avoid stressing the grass and drying out the soil.
Over half of water usage in summer goes to lawn watering. By following the above steps, you can reduce water usage and strengthen your lawn. Water consistently but not too often, letting the soil dry between waterings to encourage deep root growth. Water deeply and aim for about an inch a week, accounting for rainfall.
Expensive chemical fertilizers aren’t necessary, as natural options like compost work well. These nourish both the grass and soil. Top dressing with a 1/2 inch layer of compost or natural fertilizer promotes strong lawn health, as does adding needed nutrients found during soil testing.
While avoiding herbicides is tough, it’s doable. Weeds often indicate poor soil health, so improving the soil goes a long way in reducing them. Many conventional herbicides pose health risks and are linked to serious illnesses, making natural lawn care safer for people and animals.
Leaving grass longer helps control weeds by allowing more photosynthesis. Feeling adventurous? Consider replacing your lawn with a garden. Growing veggies, herbs, and fruits in front yards is increasingly popular and offers fresh produce as well.
Even if your HOA doesn’t allow front-yard edible gardens, incorporating such plants with traditional landscaping is often allowed. If you have a front-yard vegetable garden, share your experience!
Growing a healthy, beautiful lawn without harmful chemicals is possible. Choose native grasses, add companion plants like clover or wildflowers, water thoughtfully, and use natural fertilizers. Your lawn, the environment, and the pollinators will benefit from it!
